How to Use Cervical Caps

The cervical caps are made of rubber or plastic with dome shape similar to the
diaphragms
but smaller in size. It works just like the diaphragms and the only
difference is it can be left in place for longer period of time up to 48
hours. The caps come in different sizes and it is also used along with
spermicide that are applied into the dome which is than inserted into
the vagina and fitted around the back of the cervix. Women may choose
this method over diaphragms because it is smaller in size and can fit
more tightly around the cervix.

How it Works

The cervical caps are available only by
prescription and you have to make appointment to visit your health care
practitioner. The practitioner will work with you to determine whether
or not your health condition will interfere with the use of the caps and
if you qualify the practitioner will provide you with prescription and
instruction on inserting and removing the cap. The practitioner will
also help you to find the best fit that maximizes the protection.

The
cap is use in conjunction with spermicide cream which is filled up to
about two-thirds and spread around the inside of the rim. The edge of
the cap is squeezed with one hand and inserted into the vagina with the
cream facing up. When the cap is inserted correctly it should pressed
onto and covered the cervix.

It can be inserted 6 hours before
intercourse and should remain in the vagina for at least 6 hours after
intercourse and douching should be avoided during this period. The
cervical caps work by covering the cervix to prevent sperm from entering
the uterus and prevent fertilization from occurring. The spermicide
served as an added protection to kill sperms that come into contact with
the caps.

The caps should not be left in place for more than
48 hours and should be removed before that time to avoid toxic shock
syndrome (TSS). The caps can be remove by inserting a finger into the
vagina and pull it out by first pulling on the side of the rim to break
the suction. Once removed, the cap should be properly maintained by
washing with soap and warm water and allow to dry completely before
putting away. The caps should not be use along with oil-based
lubricants or medical cream used for vaginal infection as these can
cause damage to the latex.

Advantages

Women who
cannot use diaphragms due to pelvic problems or loss of vaginal muscle
tone can switch to this method. Even though it uses less spermicide but
the cap cost more than the diaphragms so the overall cost is almost the
same between the two methods. The use of cap allow for spontaneous
sexual activity as it can be inserted 6 hours before intercourse and
left in place 6 hours after intercourse.

The cap is convenient to carry
around and using the cap does not alter the menstrual cycle or affect
natural production of hormones and fertility. This method of
contraception is effective immediately once put in place and the process
can be reverse immediately if you decide to get pregnant.

Disadvantages

Cervical
caps may not be suitable for women with distorted cervix or during
pregnancy. Maybe difficult to learn how to put in place or to remove
after use and some women may feel uncomfortable wearing it. The cap
must be worn during sexual intercourse and does not provide protection
against sexually transmitted diseases. The cap cannot be use during
menstruation and some people may be allergic to either spermicide or
latex. If left in place for too long it may lead to infection or cause
toxic shock syndrome (TSS).